The best art galleries in South Korea

With an ever-evolving art scene, South Korea is home to a number of world-renowned galleries that feature works spanning multiple genres and mediums. From Seoul to Busan and everywhere in between, the following galleries showcase some of the best art the country has to offer.

Gana Art Center 

Pyeongchang in northern Seoul is home to some of Korea’s oldest and most influential galleries. Among them is Gana Art, a modern complex designed by celebrated architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Founded in 1983, Gana Art has presented over 400 exhibitions of Korean and international art over its lengthy history, including prominent artists such as Pierre Alechinsky, Roy Lichtenstein and Joan Miro.

Jeju Museum of Art 

Surrounded by the beautiful and pristine nature of Jeju Island, the Jeju Museum of Art is the epicenter of the region’s art. The building itself reflects the local culture, colors and sounds of the island, while its historical and contemporary works are sure to inspire art enthusiasts. Of particular interest is the Chang Ree-suok Hall, which displays more than 100 artworks created by the well-known Korean artist Chang Ree-suok.

Gallery Yeh 

With its striking modernist architectural shell, Gallery Yeh is an iconic landmark in Seoul’s ritzy Gangnam district. Established in 1978 and reopened in 1982, it led to the transformation of the Sinsa-dong neighborhood into a dynamic cultural center. The gallery has also played a significant role in bridging the gap between Korea’s capital and the wider art world, featuring the works of celebrated artists such as Raphael Soto and Alberto Giacometti, as well as representing Korean masters such as Ku Pon-ung, Kwon Ok-yeon and Kim Hwan-gi around the globe.

Johyun Gallery 

Founded in 1990, the Johyun Gallery (formerly known as Gallery World) is one of Busan’s premier art galleries. Johyun represents many well-known Korean and international contemporary artists such as Nam June Paik, Julian Opie and Georges Rousse. With its carefully curated exhibitions of sculptures, paintings, and installations, Johyun is guaranteed to satisfy the most discerning of art lovers.

Artside Gallery 

Notable for its focus on contemporary Chinese art, Artside Gallery has been a leader in the artistic exchange between Korea and China, and has garnered international attention for hosting the first solo exhibition of artist Zhang Xiaogang in the country. In 2007, Artside opened a gallery space in Beijing, and in 2010 relocated its Seoul gallery to Hyoja-dong. Despite its expansion, the gallery’s vision remains the same – to present the best in Chinese and Asian avant-garde as a way to encourage understanding and creativity across Asian art.

Gallery FACTORY 

Situated in Hyoja-dong to the west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, is Gallery FACTORY, a small but punchy avant-garde space that has established itself as a steadfast presence in Seoul’s evolving art scene. The gallery encourages community participation through workshops and lectures, as well as by engaging in art consultation, public art projects, publications and international exchange programs. If you’re looking to discover the experimental work of up-and-coming artists based in Korea, Gallery FACTORY is certainly the place to do it.

Ungno Lee Museum of Art 

Designed by French architect Laurent Beaudouin, the quaint white structure that is the Ungno Lee Museum of Art was built to commemorate the work of the artist Goam Ungno Lee (1904-1989), who devoted his life to the modernization and globalization of Korean tradition through architecture. Goam’s work, which epitomizes the harmony between East and West, is distributed throughout four halls, which seem to flow together in one continual, unified space.

See more: Changwon, the city of art in South Korea

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Non-touristy activities to do in South Korea

South Korea is one of the most intriguing travel destinations in Asia. When you go, dive deep into Korean culture with these non-touristy things to do in South Korea.

Wear Traditional Korean Clothing

Chances are, you start your journey in Seoul. The Korean capital is a melting pot of tradition and modernity with old temples and palaces standing next to futuristic exhibition halls and museums. If you want to understand Koreans, the first step is to dress accordingly. Rent a Korean hanbok and you will not only feel more like a local, but you will also have free access to cultural sites, such as the palaces and temples in the city.

Play Traditional Korean Games

Jeonju is one of the most interesting cities to visit in South Korea. The old town is filled with hundreds of traditional Korean houses, called hanok. Koreans love to keep their traditions alive and have declared Jeonju their cultural capital. In fact, the city houses a large cultural center where visitors have the chance to try out traditional Korean games such as the board game Yut Nori or Tuho, a game where players throw sticks from a set distance into a canister.

Visit Busan’s SpaLand

Koreans love their bathhouses and it’s not uncommon to spend an entire day soaking in a variety of healing waters. One of Korea’s best bathhouses is located in the country’s second largest city of Busan in the south of the country. The coastal city is known for its beach vibe, seafood and natural springs. Busan’s SpaLand is an upscale version of the common Korean jjimjilbang (bathhouses) but absolutely affordable with admissions ranging from ₩12,000 ($10.50) on weekdays to ₩14,000 ($12.25) on weekends.

Explore Seoul’s Upcoming Artist Village

Most tourists in Seoul visit Bukchon Hanok Village with its old Korean houses and lovely shops. However, there is a neighborhood in Seoul that is far more traditional and hip featuring intriguing hanok teahouses, artist cafés and vintage shops. The neighborhood of Ikseondong was saved destruction by its faithful locals who have turned the area into a haven for art lovers, indie music fans and those interested in Korean traditional architecture.

Explore Tapsa Temple

While temples are not a rare sight in South Korea, Tapsa Temple at the foot of Maisan Mountain in North Jeolla Province is so unknown that not even many Koreans know about it. The temple features more than 80 man-made stone pagodas that are said to have created an electromagnetic powerhouse. It is believed that if you make a wish and place a pebble on one of the pagodas, it will come true.

See more: Most amazing places to visit in Korea during autumn

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What street foods to eat in Myeongdong, Seoul

Don't go home from your Seoul trip if you haven't tried Korean street foods in Myeongdong.
Here’s a list of the street foods we have snacked on in the busy district of South Korea’s number one tourist destination, Myeongdong.

Foot-long ice cream cones

Twirling an ice cream is a skill that entails a lot of time to practice. But it’s an easy thing to do for those street vendors selling these foot-long ice cream cones. You can choose from a variety of flavours – mango, strawberry, banana, chocolate, blueberry, etc. You can make it a combo of two flavours too! I would highly suggest you head over to 32 Parfait that’s located in Myeongdong.

Jipangyi (Korean cane ice cream)

If the usual ice cream cone doesn’t give you any unique experience, then you can buy this ice cream served in a cane-shaped cone. It’s worth the try for its cone is made out of corn. It has already been internationalised and franchised in different countries across the globe such as Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Macau, China, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and New York, USA.

Bungeoppang (Fish bread)

Basically, this one is made from ingredients of waffle batter. And yes you’re right, it is not a fish-filled bread. It is just a fish-shaped waffle. The stuffing that makes this street food special is the red bean paste, a Korean-favourite dessert filling. Perhaps the best Koreanised sweet street food! Definitely a cheap steal!

Gyerranppang

Another worth-a-try Korean street food, this oval-shaped waffle topped with whole egg can be found in hawker stalls in every corner of Myeongdong district (and most Seoul City areas). It’s best when the yolk is uncooked!

Dalgona

It’s a light cookie snack which is surprisingly made up of only two ingredients: baking soda and white granulated sugar. A piece can be shared by two persons since it’s too sweet (although that’s optional). It’s definitely one of the cheapest sweet Korean street foods!

Eomuk kkochi (fish cakes)

Eomuk kkochi is probably the most affordable yet delicious Korean street food you can find that comes with a complimentary fish broth soup. It is absolutely worth a try! It is seen in most hawker stalls and subway stations. It has its Japanese street food counterpart oden.

Soondae or sundae

No, we’re done talking about ice cream, this isn’t about it anymore. This Korean street food is actually common worldwide, which every country has its own variation. Koreans made a twist in which other than the thickened pig blood, it also contains japchae (glass noodles), glutinous rice and barley. Give it a shot and compare it to your hometown’s version!

Tteokbokki

This cylinder-shaped sticky glutinous rice drench in spicy Korean sauce must be on your list of must-try Korean street foods. Although it is also served in most Korean restaurants, some hawker stalls serve better versions of it.

See more: 5 street foods to try in Busan, South Korea

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Come to these best bibimbap restaurants in Seoul, Korea

Bibimbap is a healthy, delicious, colorful dish wildly popular in South Korea. Made up of rice topped with seasonal vegetables and with additions consisting of egg or meat slices, this delicacy is served in numerous establishments throughout South Korea. Try one of these popular variations on bibimbap in the culinary metropolis that is Seoul.

Gogung

A popular restaurant for tourists and older generations due to its highly traditional Korean ambiance, Gogung specializes in bibimbap. With live performances of traditional Korean music every evening and staff that dress exclusively in hanbok (the traditional Korean garb), Gogung lives up to its name, which literally translates to ‘old palace.’ Don’t be fooled into thinking that Gogun is your typical tourist trap, however – it’s also regularly frequented by Korean diplomats. Their wide variety of bibimbap ranges from classics, such as Jeonju and dolsot bibimbap to specialty dishes such as nakji (octopus) and yukhoe (beef tartare) bibimbap.

Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan

Despite being a hole-in-the-wall establishment, this restaurant is highly recommended in guidebooks for its bibimbap’s taste – which is richer, slightly sweeter, and certainly more intense than those served in most other establishments. Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan has been around for 46 years and, despite an overwhelming popularity among Japanese tourists, also entertains both locals and Western visitors. Despite being famous for the Jeonjubibimbap, this restaurant also serves up a delicious dolsotbibimbap – consisting of rice made with beef broth and flavored soy bean paste, cooked in a pagodite stone pot until the bottom is slightly scorched.

Walkerhill Ondal

One of just two Korean restaurants to be found in Seoul’s luxury hotels, the Ondal restaurant at the Sheraton Walkerhill Hotel offers a gorgeous view of the Han River on the eastern side of Seoul. This fine-dining restaurant prides itself on its rich legacy, having hosted quite a few politicians and diplomats such as the members of the Korean G20 summit, and basing its menu on the traditional royal cuisine of the Joseon dynasty. Its bibimbap is created with ingredients of the highest quality – all vegetables are fresh and organic – and prepared using a combination of modern and classic techniques sourced from historical research.

Sae Byuk Jib

Sae Byuk Jib literally translates into ‘House Of Dawn’ and, unsurprisingly, given that it is primarily a galbi (steak) restaurant, it specializes in yukhoe – or raw beef – as a topping for bibimbap. Though yukhoe is undeniably an acquired taste, even for Koreans, Sae Byuk Jib’s yukhoe bibimbap is renowned among food critics and locals. The bibimbap also comes with a side of seonjitguk, a soup made from coagulated animal blood – another distinctive, daring dish which richly rewards those bold enough to try it. The menu at this restaurant is offered separately in English for Western tourists.

Mokmyeoksanbang

This gorgeous hanok restaurant was built by the Seoul government in order to promote Korean culture and cuisine. Named after the ancient Mokmyeok, the mountain which is now called Namsan, the traditional wooden house offers a small yet polished interior with warm lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. With metal bowls and wooden trays, the decor is classic old-school Korean, further enhanced by the brass kettles in which Korean teas and makgeolli (rice wine) are served. Eat inside with delightfully friendly service, or enjoy the al fresco dining and the accompanying view of Myeong-dong and the Namsan tower.

See more: What to eat for vegetarians in Korea

Source: Internet

Visit the cutest places in Seoul, South Korea

Renowned as a shopping capital and a country with numerous historical wonders, Korea does not conventionally pop into mind when you mention the word ‘cute’. Dispel this myth, for here are our top picks on where you can find Seoul at its pinnacle of cuteness.

LINE Store

Brimming with an immense galore of LINE merchandise up for grabs, the LINE store at Ehwa definitely comes in at the top of our list of cute places in Seoul! Be sure to drop by this Instagram-worthy store when you’re shopping in Ehwa, especially since it’s only a short distance from the main fashion street. This place is virtual reality-come-true with the LINE characters from your chat app morphing into irresistible keepsakes!

I couldn’t stop gushing over the array of merchandise available! Pose with the stars of the show, a life-sized Brown or Cony that welcomes you upon your entrance.

The most arresting feature of this store is the quaint brick wall that hits all the right notes in the visuals department, displaying rows of Brown bears dressed in a plethora of outfits. And if you can’t get enough of the charm of this store, there is a little booth in which more LINE plushies await to greet you… This has got to be the epitome of cuteness, hands down!

Address: 59 Ehwa Women’s University Road, 56-136 Daehyun-dong Level 1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (서울 서대문구 이화여대길 59 대현동 56-136 1층)

Teddy Bear Gallery

The child within each of us can never resist cuddly teddy bears, what more a whole gallery of them! This slightly obscure find within the N Seoul Tower is not to be missed the next time you’re there.

With teddy bears in all shapes and sizes, this is a haven if you’ve got a soft spot for cuddly plushies and collectors’ items! Go ahead and purchase your favourites, because some of these teddies are truly rare and unique. Now you know that the locks of love and observatory tower aren’t the only attractions at N Seoul Tower!

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 남산공원길 105 (용산동2가) )

Ihwa Mural Village

Tucked in a secluded area, this humble yet extraordinary residential area is worth the trek up Naksan Mountain – it’s a tourist paradise where modernity and tradition meld into a harmonious concoction. We were surprised to find shops selling intricate costume jewellery, a plenitude of souvenirs, and even a few cafes brewing the whole range of coffee beverages!

Be dressed in your best; you will definitely want to look as gorgeous as the hand-painted murals which are pure artistry. Besides posing for your #ootds against the murals in the village, you can also enjoy the tranquillity of this place away from the bustle of the city.

Address: Ihwa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 이화동)

Yeouido Hangang Park

If you’re visiting Korea during spring, don’t miss out on chilling at Han River Park. This is the time to behold flowers in a riot of vibrant colours here. You can literally take your time to smell the roses! Prepare your selfie stick for the highlight of the park — the cute “I Seoul U” sculpture that lends itself to enhancing the aesthetics of your Instagram feed.

Have a languid evening lounging on picnic mats with food and drinks purchased from the street food stall nearby and give yourself an auditory treat as you listen to the buskers perform. The refreshing breeze and panoramic views are sure to liberate you from all your troubles. Cheers!

Address: 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동))

Souvenir shop at Anguk Station

Still find yourself short of souvenirs for your friends and family back home? Suppress that sigh and make a beeline for this little souvenir shop near Anguk Station! Souvenir shopping was unbelievably fun for me when I stumbled upon this trove of delights.

This lovely shop is a cavern housing an amazing variety of souvenirs — from themed handmade dolls decked primly in hanboks (the traditional Korean costume), to gold-plated bookmarks that depict icons of Korea such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace. There are also purses made from rich textiles, novelty keychains, elegant fans adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy paintings. Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive. We assure you that your friends and loved ones will simply adore you for these souvenirs!

How to get there: Walk to the shops near Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2

See more: 7 reasons why you should visit Seoul once

Source: Internet

7 must-visit cities in Asia

Asia is a continent that offers something for everyone, from Thailand’s magnificent beaches to Beijing’s famed shopping districts and the temples of Hanoi, you’re practically guaranteed to discover your perfect destination.

1. Singapore

Singapore, with a cityscape that looks as if it was ripped right out of the pages of a sci-fi book, has become an economic powerhouse over the past half-century, with a high standard of living and numerous reasons to visit. It’s considered a shopper’s paradise with its numerous malls, though it also offers magnificent architecture, culture and amazing public art along with a slice of horticultural heaven with its Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens. Many visitors come for the incredible food, with the melding of cultures, cuisine and natural beauty evident in every area of the city. Feast on nasi lemak, a Malaysian dish of coconut rise, anchovies, cucumber and chili paste; bak kut the, a clear Chinese soup cooked with pork ribs and five spices and even delectable British crumpets for tea.

2. Hoi An, Vietnam

This city on the central Vietnamese coast is one of the coolest towns in Southeast Asia, with its center a national heritage zone, which means no motorized vehicles are allowed. Stroll the cobblestone streets lined with charming shops and cafés, lit with lanterns and loaded with history. Once a month, during the full moon, the town trades its electric lights for traditional colored lanterns, while performers and musicians fill the streets with song. Hoi An is also the home of some of the best tailors in the entire country – bring a photograph of something you like and they’ll whip it up for you in a matter of hours, at almost unbelievably cheap prices too.

3. Seoul, Korea

Seoul is a lively, economic powerhouse, the business and cultural hub of South Korea. Here skyscrapers tower over Buddhist temples. From the N Seoul Tower, built atop a peak in Namsan Park, visitors can take in the entire scene. Enjoy incredible food, with nearly all ingredients locally grown, often featuring grilled cuts of beef and unlimited portions of side dishes, including soups, fresh vegetables and spicy sauces, all served at the table. You’ll also find a thriving nightlife, friendly people and a fascinating culture with a “work hard, play hard” mentality.

4. Taipei, Taiwan

Filled with contrasts, in Taipei you’ll find peaceful parks encircled by hectic streets and traditional markets right next to some of the trendiest boutiques. It’s old enough to have a fascinating history, yet modern enough to get Wi-Fi coverage everywhere you go. Food lovers will be in heaven, as not only can you eat well, but you can eat very cheaply. Even in eateries that don’t exactly look sophisticated, you’ll find the quality of the food is superior and there are almost an overwhelming number of options. In addition to local Taiwanese dishes, you’ll find regional cuisines from across China along with outstanding Japanese, Indian and even Italian fare.

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, is one of the world’s leading financial, banking and trading centers and a gateway between East and West. You’ll find amazing dim sum, floating islands and a one-of-a-kind skyline. Enjoy tea in the elaborate lobby of the Peninsula Hotel, accompanied by music from a string ensemble, view traditional Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping village and then take the tram to the top of Victoria Peak for unparalleled views. The city also has more than 200 offshore islands, like Lantau Island, which offers a rare glimpse into the life of rural Hong Kong. After dark, take in the real-life version of Disney’s Electric Light Parade, when Hong Kong skyscrapers come to life at 8 p.m. every night in a magical show set to a stirring soundtrack.

6. Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, traditional collides with pop culture, offering everything from belting out a song at a karaoke bar to reverently wandering through ancient temples. While it’s chaotic, crowded and expensive, everything is incredibly clean and the people are extremely polite.  “Cosplay” is popular among young people, and they often use it to pay homage to favorite anime, movie, or comic book characters, which means you’ll see some intricate and impressive ensembles, especially in the hip, edgier Harajuku District. There are more Michelin-starred restaurants here than in Paris – the food is fresh, rich, and delicious – indulge in as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi as your belly can handle.

Read more: Where to go in Asia for summer vacations

7. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap has been called the “perfect destination” for first-time travelers to Asia. This capital city in northwestern Cambodia is easy to get around, and you’ll find attractions on nearly every corner, with friendly people, lots of history, culture, nightlife, museums, markets and opportunities for relaxing as well as taking part in adventurous activities. When the morning light washes across the temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, the city looks like a breathtaking painting come to life. Its ancient structures are found within one of the largest religious complexes in the world, with this complex and the 12 century Angkor Thom royal city, an expression of the true genius, considered the main reasons to visit. You can also get a fascinating lesson in national history at the Cambodian Cultural Village.

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Top cities should be on list of food lovers

Asia is a dream destination for foodies, as each country provides its own unique dishes, culinary traditions and fresh ingredients that are hard to resist. From sushi perfection in Japan and spicy dishes Thailand to the diverse flavors in Malaysia, you’re spoiled for choice in creating the ultimate food adventure.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo not only has some of the best food in Asia, but also in the entire world with over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants. Ramen is a staple in Japanese cuisine and sampling the different varieties is all a part of the fun, where you can sit in cozy restaurants with just eight or 10 seats. Wander down alleyways to discover noodle shops, dine on fresh sushi and sample okonomiyaki savory pancakes and yakitori grilled chicken skewers.

Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand is known for its delicious street food, where every plate is bursting with flavor and a combination of spices and sauces such as ginger, lemongrass and fish sauce. Cuisines here blend sweet and spicy with ingredients such as coconut milk and kaffir lime leaves. While pad Thai is the most popular dish, you can’t go wrong with tom yum goong (a spicy hot and sour soup) and a dessert of mango sticky rice.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Food is at the very heart of the Vietnamese culture. Markets are on every corner and almost every aspect of life in Vietnam revolves around the preparation and shared experience of eating. Indulge in a banh mi sandwich, fresh spring roll or a steaming bowl of pho at any time of day, while Hanoians typically wash it down with a strong Vietnamese-style coffee that is thick and topped with condensed milk.

Seoul, South Korea

Kimchi, bibimbap and Korean barbecue are some of most iconic cuisines to sample in Seoul and definitely a must-try when there, but the city also has more to offer. Visit one of the famous markets like Gwangjang, Namdaemun and Myeong-dong and sample teokbokki rice cake rolls in chili sauce, kimbap seaweed rice rolls and dakkochi grilled chicken skewers. Korea is known for its banchan side dishes, while gogigui is all things grilled meat.

Taipei, Taiwan

Foodie heaven with delicious dishes being served around the clock, Taipei boasts a booming night market scene. Check out the trendy Ximending in search of succulent pork sandwiches and chunks of fried chicken, while milk tea and cheesy baked potatoes are just as enticing. Sample lu rou fan (minced pork rice), niu rou mian (beef noodle soup), hujiao bing pepper buns and Taiwanese-style hot pot.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The biggest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a foodie destination that is famous for its spicy Khao soi, which is a noodle dish that contains boiled then deep-fried egg noodles that are drenched in a thick chicken or beef coconut curry broth and then garnished with lime, roasted chili and shallots. It’s a favorite with both locals and visitors alike, while the city’s grilled chicken, papaya salad and sai oua grilled herb sausage are also worthy of sampling.

Bali, Indonesia

The only Hindu island in Indonesia, Bali has a unique cultural and food landscape that lures you in. Start with a classic Indonesian staple mie goreng, which is fried noodles served with chicken, shrimp or pork, then wash it down with pisang goreng, a dessert with fried bananas, honey and can include coconut flakes or ice cream. Nasi goreng is another favorite with fried rice, while sate is chicken with spices on a stick.

Osaka, Japan

A food lover’s paradise, Osaka has been dubbed “the country’s kitchen” due to its delicious street food an abundance of highly-rated restaurants. Born and bred, you can’t leave the city without trying the famous okonomiyaki cabbage pancakes and the takoyaki octopus balls, which are found both on the street and in restaurants. Other highlights include kitsune udon, a broth with thick noodles and deep-fried tofu, and kushi-katsu, which is meat or vegetables that are deep-fried and skewered.

Read more: Top dishes you must relish on a trip to Osaka


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